Madagascar Highlights

Entering the pristine rainforest, the cool air fights the warm sun for your attention; crystalline rivers meander through the loamy earth as the clear notes of birds ring out like church bells.

Discover a bizarrely beautiful land of leaping lemurs, carnivorous plants, monkey trees, luscious rainforests, red lunar deserts & beyond perfect beaches with this all-encompassing safari through Madagascar. Truly a world unto itself, this eco-rich isle rests off the tip of Africa and is home to exotic creatures found nowhere else on earth.

Hit up all of this magical country’s highlights as you tour Antananarivo, Ambositra, Ranomafana, Fianarantsoa, Isalo and Ifaty led by an expert private guide. Go wild on day and night lemur hikes while learning all about these quirky primates. Swim in waterfalls, spot neon chameleons, safari through baobab forests, tour Malagasy arts and crafts workshops, meet friendly villagers, soak in hot springs, listen to pirate legends and chill on the beach. In the evenings, relax in a mix of charming lodges, hotels and guest houses that offer inviting surroundings and modern amenities. Your time on Madagascar promises to be uniquely memorable.

Enjoy a personalized vacation that best suits your needs, developed by one of our experienced destination experts. Relax during your trip with our 24/7 support and expert local guidance.

Itinerary

Antananarivo

Tamboho Hotel

Day 1: Antananarivo

Meet your in-country representative at the airport before setting out on this unique Malagasy adventure.

Please be aware that your driver will be waiting for you at the International Arrival gate. An airport sign with your name should be seen and you may have to look for the Kensington Tours logo if the airport gets overcrowded. If you cannot locate your driver please remain calm and approach the Airport Welcome Service. An announcement intended for your driver can be broadcasted there, and this will then become the rally point. In the case of an emergency or you cannot locate your driver, the emergency contact details are on your documents and you should call the mentioned numbers before attempting to leave the airport.

Enjoy a private vehicle transfer to/from the Antananarivo International Airport.

Accommodation: Tamboho Hotel

Madagascar Rolling Hills

Day 2: Antananarivo - Ambositra

Today, hop into your privately driven vehicle as you depart towards Andasibe, making route from Tana and then southwards to Antsirabe. You will cross the highlands via the famous national RN7, which leads to the South of Madagascar. A lunch-stop is scheduled in Ambatolampy where the opportunity presents itself to meet the passionate villagers who make handmade pots and other frequently used household items. In the afternoon, you will reach the town of Antsirabe, known as the "Vichy Malgache" and famous for its thermal waters and rickshaws. This highland crossing continues into the region of Betsileo, for a stop in the town of Ambositra, famous for its workshops and Zafimaniry Wood Carvings.

Accommodation: Artisan Hotel

Unique Biodiversity

Setam Lodge

Day 3: Ambositra - Ranomafana

Continue this Madagascar adventure with a drive in a Southern direction, in the comfort of a private vehicle. Pass through the scenic highlands area as you make way from Ambositra towards the Ranomafana Rainforest.

Today you will visit the Ranomafana forest; this forest is known for species of bamboo lemurs found in Madagascar. The most common is the lesser bamboo lemur which can also be seen in Andasibe. The greater bamboo lemur is very rare and only known to be found in two locations. You may find them by hearing the crack of big bamboo stems as they feed. The star of Ranomafana is the golden bamboo lemur "Hapalemuraureus" which was only discovered in 1986 whilst researchers were trying to find the greater bamboo lemur. The park was created soon after this discovery. The largest lemur in the park is the elusive Milne-Edwards sifaka, often spotted high up in the forest canopy. You should also look out for red bellied lemurs which live in couples with their offspring and red fronted brown lemurs which live in large groups. Ranomafana is also a birding hotspot but finding birds in the dense forest can be very tricky.

Almost half of the world’s chameleon’s population, which being some 60 different species, are found only in Madagascar. They are known for their ability to change color as these reptiles can alter their appearance in response to changes in temperature, light, and mood. By rotating each eye independently, chameleons can see to all sides and directions without moving their heads, making meals out of flies in a flash!

Accommodation: Setam Lodge

Fianarantsoa - Old City View

Tsara Guest House

Day 4: Ranomafana - Fianarantsoa

Ranging in size from 30gm (1.1 oz) to 9 kg (20 lb), lemurs share many of the common primate traits, such as divergent digits on their hands and feet and nails instead of claws. However, their brain-to-body size ratio is smaller than that of anthropoid primates, and among many other traits they share with other primates, they have a "wet nose" (rhinarium). Lemurs are generally social and communicate more with scents and vocalizations than with visual signals. Many lemur adaptations are in response to Madagascar's highly seasonal environment.

Start the day off bright and early as you head out on a hike through the forest for a day of exploration. Set out on foot, accompanied by your expert guide, to the deep regions of the National Park of Ranomafana to view the diverse variety of Lemurs living here. The park’s star attraction is the golden bamboo lemur, often found grazing amongst the bamboo thickets. Marvel at the colorful bird-life and uniquely beautiful flora and fauna of this rich natural habitat.

Enjoy your private vehicle transfer from Ranomafana to Fianarantsoa. The drive will take approximately two hours.

Today enjoy your private guided tour of old town Fianarantsoa. It is perched onto the hills with its beautiful traditional architecture reflecting the different stages of colonization. You will walk through the streets of Fianarantsoa and stop at the major landmarks to know more about the connection between the Betsileo and the period of colonization.

Accommodation: Tsara Guest House

Isalo National Park

Isalo Rock Lodge

Day 5: Fianarantsoa - Isalo National Park

This adventure continues as you depart the highlands area in the comfort of a privately driven vehicle, and travel further South towards the semi-dry landscapes this truly diverse island country. The first scheduled stop of the day is in the small town of Ambalavao, one of the cultural hubs of the country, boasting a variety of architectural treasures and quaint veranda-lined houses. Enjoy a visit to the entirely natural Paper Factory in Antemoro. Here, inlaid paper is created from plants and flowers which are exported nowadays all over the globe to create some of the world's most famous and beautiful greeting cards. The day’s journey is completed upon your arrival into Ranohira the main town outside Isalo National Park. Isalo National Park is home to some of Madagascar’s most stunning scenery, with barren landscapes, twisted rock formations and extraordinary plants life.

Accommodation: Isalo Rock Lodge

Lunar Landscapes

Day 6: Isalo National Park

Spend the day exploring the almost lunar landscapes of the Isalo National Park. With an expert guide at your side, travel through the deep canyons of this stellar location. Visit the wonderful waterfalls and natural pools as they pass, providing an ideal opportunity for a refreshing swim or to take some memorable photos. As your day comes to an end enjoy watching the natural beauty of the sun-setting below the horizon of this stunning national park.

A private vehicle with driver will be at your disposal for the day.

Accommodation: Isalo Rock Lodge

Ifaty Vezo Fishermen

Les Dunes D'ifaty

Day 7: Isalo National Park - Ifaty

Enjoy your private vehicle transfer from Isalo National Park to Ifaty. Please keep in mind that your transfer from Tolaira to Ifaty will be a bumpy road commute and can take up to two hours. The whole drive is approximately seven hours.

Today enjoy your day at the beach in Ifaty. It is a small Vezo fishing village on Madagascar's south eastern coast, on the shores of the Mozambique Channel. Not only is it a great way to observe the local fishing culture but it’s also where you can enjoy relaxing at the various pristine and isolated beaches.

Accommodation: Les Dunes D`ifaty

Ifaty Beach

Day 8: Ifaty

Today enjoy your day at the beach in Ifaty. It is a small Vezo fishing village on Madagascar's south eastern coast, on the shores of the Mozambique Channel. Not only is it a great way to observe the local fishing culture but it’s also where you can enjoy relaxing at the various pristine and isolated beaches.

Accommodation: Les Dunes D`ifaty

Day 9: Ifaty - Toliara(Tulear) - Antananarivo

Enjoy your flight from Toliara (TLE) to Antananarivo (TNR), the flight will take 1 hour and 5 mins. Luggage restriction applicable to this flight: 20kg (44lb) per person, for checked luggage, the bag must not exceed 158cm (62 inches) in total. You can have one piece for your carry-on, weighing maximum 6kg (13lb), it must not exceed 115cm (45 inches).

Enjoy a private vehicle transfer to/from the Antananarivo International Airport.

Accommodation: Tamboho Hotel

Palace of the Queen

Day 10: Antananarivo

Begin this Madagascar adventure by exploring the capital and largest city in Madagascar. Discover the colonial history of this ancient city, and find out the reason why Antananarivo was once named "the city of a Thousand." Marvel at the goings on and the daily life routines of these Malagasy people. Highlights of this tour include a visit to the Old City sections, and the palace of the Queen, which will introduce you to the architecture and urbanism of this dynamic African city. No tour of the town is complete without a moment's pause on one of the hills to take in the view over the city.

What's Included:

Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

What's not Included:

Trip Terms & Conditions

Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.

Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.

Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary

Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.

Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.

Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

Hotels

Tamboho Hotel

Guest Room

Tamboho Hotel - Antananarivo

The Tamboho Hotel boasts an exceptional setting created by a combination of traditional African authenticity and modern upscale amenities. The hotel is located near a lot of Antananarivo Tana city area highlights including the Zoma, the Independence Avenue, the Queen's Palace Ranavalona, Tsimbazaza Zoo, the riches of nature and the Malagasy lemurs, Ambohimanga and his palace, and a variety of marketplaces boasting crafts, basketry, wood carvings, semi precious and precious stones. This 30 roomed hotel offers a restaurant boasting European cuisine and flavors of the islands, heated swimming pool and a la carte spa treatments. Enjoy the reception area design, its cozy atmosphere and quality services in an atmosphere Malagasy. With free WIFI connection, available throughout the building, Tamboho is one of the best hotels in Antananarivo Madagascar.

Artisan Hotel - Ambositra

The Artisan Hotel is elegantly tucked into a quiet and peaceful corner of Ambositra. This property offers rooms and bungalows, decorated in the traditional style using local wood and other materials. Located a short five minute walk from the center of town, this clean and simple hotel is ideal for frequent or first time visitors to Madagascar. The dining facilities provide guests with excellent food and music, and the perfect means to relax after a long day of exploration.

Setam Lodge - Ranomafana

The Setam Lodge is set above river valley, in a heavily forested area just inside the boundaries of the Ranomafana National Park. Each of the 10 bungalows provides scenic views from there perched hilltop location of the dense rainforest and river below. Each of the 20 chalet rooms is located within the 10 bungalows.

Tsara Guest House - Fianarantsoa

The Tsara Guest House is a quaint little boutique hotel located in Fianarantsoa, Madagascar’s second largest city, consisting of buildings with traditional highland architecture. The main building is a restored church, and it now boasts comfortable and functional rooms, all with en-suite bathroom facilities. The property has a bar, restaurant and small garden. Here, guests will enjoy an atmosphere of a simple but elegant "Art de vivre".

Isalo Rock Lodge - Isalo National Park

The Isalo Rock Lodge is a modern and stunning 60 Room Retreat, positioned high in the Sandstone Mountains, overlooking the Isalo National Park in south western Madagascar, providing guest with some breathtaking views. Whilst luxury abounds in the hotel with all modern amenities, Isalo is home to many species of flora and fauna, including, the Giant Chameleon and the renowned Lemurs.

Les Dunes D'ifaty - Ifaty

Les Dunes D'ifaty is situated 27 kilometers north of Tulear, and overlooks the beautiful Mozambique Channel. This charming hotel complex boasts a total of 19 villas and 22 deluxe rooms, all of which feature comfortable beds and large wooden verandahs. The hotel is located close to the sea providing guests with an underwater playground to explore amongst the lagoons coral reef. Tasty cuisine options and tons of activities to choose from make the Dunes D'ifaty a truly authentic Madagascar hotel for travellers from all across the globe.

Map

Reviews

Africa
Sachi Gowda ,
December 15, 2014"We are extremely happy with your service from beginning to end and we had very a memorable trip."

Africa
Ronald Jones ,
December 12, 2014"I cannot express how fabulous our trip was!! I know it was made that way thanks to ALL the kind, knowledgable, and helpful people that you all placed in our path. Many went above and beyond to make our experience even more positive. From drivers, to guides, to hotel staff---we met some wonderful people that we can now call friends. Thank you Christine and Kensington tours for this once in a lifetime African adventure!"

Africa
RonJones ,
December 15, 2014"Christine, our family trip was ALL we wanted it to be. The hotel accommodations in the cities were GREAT. We needed to make some room assignment adjustments but that's to be expected with a large family with children and same names.
I don't know where/how ya'll got those guides but...KEEP'EM! In both Cape Town and Joberg the guys knew their cities and environs excellently. Their English was very good...so good in fact that several got the sarcasm and even joked some. I do apologize if we over-tipped. I relied on each family to tip their own driver but, I wasn't sure of their "sense of what was right" so I followed up with something for each.
Simbavati was "PERFECT". As much as Glenda and I really liked Ngala, I do not think they could have handled a family as well...UNLESS, they had accommodations we did not see.
Please rest assured when ever I plan to travel on a multi-dimensional trip in the future, for sure with a group, or maybe just Glenda and I, I'll be calling Kensington... Christine and Donna specifically. And most definitely, anytime I can recommend a travel professional, your company and you two will be mentioned by name!
Thank you again Christine...you presented us the exact trip we dreamed about for our family and your folks on the ground made it happen! I sincerely hope you, Donna and everyone else involved have a most Blessed Christmas and a wonderful, successful New Year!"

Africa
Bruce Lundstrom ,
December 15, 2014"Morocco has a lot to offer. Food, historic sites, craftsmen (rugs, jewelry, ceramics, furniture, etc.), natural beauty, roads and infrastructure, and a reasonably safe environment. Both Guide (Abdel) and Driver were excellent. Service-oriented, timely and easy going. Abdel was not afraid to speak his mind, offer suggestions and give us feedback on ideas. We enjoyed their company."

Africa
AlbertLind ,
December 09, 2014"A truly wonderful trip......first class accommodations and service in each venue....the guides were knowledgable and went out of their way to insure that we could see and understand Africa. Capetown is a fascinating city, Sabi Sands an extraordinary private game preserve, and Zimbabwe with Victoria Falls and the Victoria Falls Hotel a once in a lifetime experience. For those who want to visit Africa we enthusiastically recommend Kensington Tours. And Jolene Plant stayed with us in every step during the planning of our trip and itinerary. We saw as much of Africa as much as anyone can during our two weeks vacation."

Africa
Belinda Skelton ,
December 12, 2014"This was one of the most amazing trips that I have ever had. The custom tours and activities exceeded my expectations. I was traveling alone but felt safe and in good hands. The process of booking the trip with Lily Baffour was so easy and personal, especially with the constant communications from her up to my departure. Thank you Kensington Tours for an awesome experience. I will definitely use you for my next adventure!"

Africa
NancyGarret ,
December 12, 2014"Our week-long tour in Morocco went without a hitch in the company of a great driver and knowledgeable guide who were always prompt, courteous, helpful, and very nice. Kensington Tours' picks for our overnight accommodations were excellent, as well as the excursions planned for us. We're grateful to our conscientious agent, Lily, who went out of her way to make us feel welcome in Morocco. We feel confident that we are in very capable hands whenever we travel with Kensington Tours. "

Africa
KarenKuwahara ,
December 12, 2014"Our trip was a perfect 10 - exceeding all expectations! Starting with Christine Willner's attentiveness to our wish list and balancing it to our budget, every leg and element of our journey took place without so much as a hiccup. We were blown away by the quality of our tours, accommodations and guides. Thank you for giving us a great experience and wonderful memories!"

Africa
Rebecca Warren ,
August 02, 2014"My 26 year old daughter recently traveled alone to Madagascar using Kensington tours. I was a little concerned about her safety and wanted to make sure that she would be well taken care of. Kensington was great from start to finish. Our travel agent, Marc Sisson, put together the tour in very short order with very little notice, had no problem doing it for just one person, and gave me a sense of security that my daughter would be well cared for. She did the Anjajavy 5 Day Beach extension. The tour guide who picked her up at the airport in the capitol city was outstanding -- very knowledgeable and helpful. The Anjajavy hotel was extraordinary. Her pictures are breathtakingly beautiful. She kayaked, swam in the ocean and saw lemurs feeding. She got to practice her French with the outstanding hotel manager and otherwise was able to just relax and unwind. She described the experience as "visiting Eden." I highly recommend Kensington. I contacted a number of tour/travel agencies and none of them compared to Kensington. "

Africa
Shayna Maislin ,
April 21, 2014"I would highly recommend the tour guide that we had in the Serengetti . He was extremely knowledgeable, very helpful and courteous. We all agree that Kensington has first class staff working for them in Africa. All the camps that we stayed at were absolutely beautiful except perhaps for the one in Lake Manyara. All in all it was a spectacular trip!"